Washington State is the top producer of apples in the United States, cultivating about 60% of the nation’s total commercial supply. This massive output is concentrated during the apple season, which represents the time of peak commercial harvest and consumer availability. The season is a window stretching over several months, managed carefully by growers to ensure a continuous supply of fresh fruit. This extended harvest allows consumers to enjoy a wide range of apple varieties at their optimal ripeness.
The General Timeline of Apple Season
The commercial apple harvest in Washington typically begins in the late summer, starting around the final week of August. This initial phase marks the ripening of the earliest apple cultivars. The season then builds momentum, moving into September and October, which represent the period of peak activity and the highest volume of fruit picked.
The peak harvest period usually spans from mid-September through the end of October, when the majority of popular mid- and late-season varieties reach maturity. This timeline is a general guideline, as the exact dates can shift by up to two weeks depending on annual weather fluctuations. For the latest varieties, the harvest can extend into the first weeks of November before the crop is moved into controlled-atmosphere storage.
Key Varieties and Their Specific Harvest Windows
The long duration of Washington’s apple season is a result of the staggered ripening times across the hundreds of varieties grown. The earliest to be picked, starting in late August, is the popular Gala apple, known for its sweet flavor and crisp texture. Close behind is the Honeycrisp, typically harvested throughout September, prized for its firm crunch.
As September progresses into October, the orchards transition to mid-season staples like Red Delicious and Golden Delicious. These varieties require cooler nights and sunny days to develop their signature color and sugar content. The harvest of late-season varieties begins in mid-to-late October and can run into November. Late-season apples include the tart Granny Smith and the Fuji, known for its intense sweetness and long storage life. The Cripps Pink (marketed as Pink Lady) is one of the last varieties harvested, often waiting until mid-to-late October.
Primary Apple Growing Regions
Washington’s apple production is centered in the state’s semi-arid, central and eastern regions, east of the Cascade Mountain range. This climate provides ideal conditions for apple cultivation. The three primary growing regions are the Wenatchee Valley, the Yakima Valley, and the Columbia Basin.
The Wenatchee Valley, often called the “Apple Capital of the World,” and the Yakima Valley benefit from long, hot, sunny days that promote sugar development. These regions rely on ample irrigation supplied by the Columbia River, converting the arid land into fertile orchards. The cold, clear nights help set the fruit’s vibrant color and contribute to its firmness. The soil, derived from ancient volcanic ash, is rich in minerals, offering a nutrient-dense medium for the trees.
Tips for Visiting Orchards and Farm Stands
Many orchards offer u-pick opportunities and roadside farm stands for consumers looking to experience the apple season firsthand. The most comfortable time to visit is generally early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Visiting during the hottest part of the day is not ideal, as warm apples are more susceptible to bruising.
It is advisable to call ahead or check the orchard’s social media pages before visiting. Availability of specific varieties and u-pick fields depends on the weather and how quickly the crop is being picked. When storing freshly picked apples, keep them separate from other produce. Apples naturally release ethylene gas, which accelerates the ripening and spoilage of nearby fruits and vegetables.